This post is part of our 'SEL x Books' series, diving into how Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is woven into our books to help children grow emotionally, socially, and mentally!
The Magic of Mindful Breathing
In today’s fast-paced world, even children can feel overwhelmed by their emotions. Bumble Bee Breath introduces young readers to a simple, fun breathing technique that helps them manage their emotions and find calm in moments of stress.
In the book, Bina the bumble bee teaches her friend Jini the ladybug how to use Bumble Bee Breath to feel calm when she's scared of flying far from the meadow. By practicing this mindful breathing, Jini learns how to manage her anxiety and feel lighter and happier. This gentle practice, also known as Bhramari (pronounced brah-mah-ree), meaning 'buzzing of the bees,' encourages children to take deep, mindful breaths while mimicking the soft hum of a bee."
Research shows that mindful breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping kids (and adults!) relax and reduce stress (Vempati & Telles, 2002). By focusing on their breath, children can regulate their emotional responses and learn to control their reactions to stressful situations. Breathing exercises have been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress, making it easier to focus, feel safe, and navigate tough feelings.
How Bumble Bee Breath Integrates into SEL
- Social Awareness
- Self Awareness
- Self Management
- Relationship Skills
- Responsible Decision Making
Self-Awareness: Recognizing Emotions
Similar to The Light of Love, Gratitude Garden, and Bubble Adventure, Bumble Bee Breath taps into one of the most important aspects of Social and Emotional Learning—Self-awareness. Bina, the bumble bee, teaches children to tune into their bodies and feelings. She shows her friend Jini how to sit comfortably and breathe deeply, allowing her belly to fill with air before exhaling with a soft "hmmmm" sound. By focusing on their breath and the gentle vibrations in their heads and throats, kids start recognizing when they feel anxious, upset, or overwhelmed. This awareness is the first step toward managing these emotions.
Self-Management: Managing Unwanted Emotions
Once children recognize their emotions, they can use Bumble Bee Breath to manage them. Bina’s breathing exercise becomes a tool for calming down, grounding themselves, and re-centering their thoughts when they feel overwhelmed—just like Jini, who learns to hum her worries away. Research suggests that breathing techniques help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and increase feelings of safety and well-being (Porges, 2011).
Practical Tips for Parents and Educators
Here’s how you can bring the magic of Bumble Bee Breath into your child's day:
- At Home: Try practicing the bumble bee breath before bedtime to help your child wind down. Create a calming atmosphere by dimming the lights and sitting together, buzzing softly as you exhale.
- In the Classroom: Teachers can incorporate bumble bee breath as a transition tool between activities, helping children refocus and prepare for the next lesson.
- During Stressful Moments: Encourage children to use this technique when they feel anxious or upset. It’s a fun, non-judgmental way to regain control of their emotions.
Buzzing Toward Emotional Well-Being
By weaving mindful breathing techniques into everyday routines, Bumble Bee Breath helps children develop essential emotional skills. It offers a playful but powerful way to handle life’s ups and downs, ensuring kids can buzz their way to calm and happiness, one breath at a time.
References
Vempati, R. P., & Telles, S. (2002). Yoga-Based Guided Relaxation Reduces Sympathetic Activity Judged from Baseline Levels. Psychological Reports, 90(2), 487–494. https://doi.org/10.2466/pr0.2002.90.2.487
Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: neurophysiological foundations of emotions, attachment, communication, and self-regulation. http://ci.nii.ac.jp/ncid/BB05274933
Full of beans, Jade